Buying replacement motor for 2011 FB25, do VIN digits matter?

mbrahmey · 2025-10-07T09:50:30-0400

Newbie question.

I've got a 2011 Forester with a seized up motor. Intending to swap newer FB25, following all the best advice here and on youtube.

When looking for used motors on JLQ and car-part.com (my usual go to for used parts), I can find lots of 2016+ FB25 engines but the search criteria asks for VIN A or VIN B or VIN C. These appear to be based on PHEV, AT vs MT, Canada vs US.

My question is, does it matter for doing the swap?

My common sense says "no", the block/heads are the same and only the computer or CVT/EGR equipment are different.

Obviously, I don't want to buy the wrong motor.

Thanks in advance!
Mike

maller01 · 2025-10-07T09:59:46-0400

@mbrahmey Welcome to the forum!

Vin does not matter for your replacement engine. Good idea to go with a 2016 engine, thats what I did.

slvrwrx02 · 2025-10-07T13:13:32-0400

Just remember that if you go to a 2015+, you'll need to swap additional components so that the engine works in the 2011-2014 FB series Forester. Timing cover, coolant/oil temp sensor, Camshaft tone wheels, coil packs (and valve covers if you don't want spacers). The biggest thing to remember from the old motor is to save the wiring harness as that needs to be swapped over to the new motor.

mbrahmey · 2025-10-08T10:47:19-0400

Thank you very much for the quick responses. Yes, I have learned all the old-to-new motor parts swapping from forum and Oswalt. Hopefully, will all come together. I'll post an update when done. Cheers!

Buying replacement motor for 2011 FB25, do VIN digits matter?

Our Vendors

Top Contributors this Month

Recommended Communities